Applications are open for the second iteration of the Long Beach Urban Planning and Design Internship Program, inviting eligible college students to apply online through Oct. 2.
This paid internship gives participants hands-on experience in urban planning, architecture and civic engagement. The program is overseen by the Economic Development Department’s Workforce Innovation Network Youth Career Services Center alongside the Long Beach Community Design Center and Civic Confidence LLC.
“We are continuing to empower our young people across a diverse range of professional fields,” said Mayor Rex Richardson in a public statement. “Building on the success of the inaugural cohort, this innovative program will cultivate the next generation of leaders in urban planning and design, leading to greater inclusivity in the workforce and more vibrant and sustainable communities.”
Through an eight-month course, interns will partake in projects, workshops and mentorship opportunities with representatives from public, private and nonprofit sectors. Participants will be staffed at local sites like nonprofits, private firms or the City’s Community Development Department and will earn $22 per hour for a maximum of 500 hours.
Students ages 18 to 30 who are actively enrolled in a community college or university program in urban planning, architecture or related fields are welcome to apply. Long Beach residents as well as applicants who are low-income or from underserved communities will receive priority. More details about eligibility requirements can be found on the program’s webpage.
“Here in Long Beach, we are uplifting our young people and building a magnet for 21st century talent,” said Economic Development Department Director Bo Martinez in a public statement. “We’re growing on the learnings and achievements of our first cohort and offering a dynamic opportunity that will help prepare students for thriving careers that will enable them to make a difference in their communities.”
The inaugural class of the Long Beach Urban Planning and Design Internship Program featured 10 participants, with their work influencing City initiatives such as the Downtown Shoreline Vision Plan. Plus, two program graduates secured full-time jobs with the California Conservation Corps and Cordoba Corporation immediately upon completion of the internship.
This program ties in with Long Beach’s Summer of Opportunity Initiative, aimed at supporting the City’s youth and combatting youth violence.
To learn more about the Long Beach Urban Planning and Design Internship Program, contact Workforce Development Officer Eli Romero at 562-570-3762 or Eli.Romero@longbeach.gov. For more information about youth employment services, visit longbeach.gov/youthservices.
